When We Were Trekkies
The Graphic Memoir of Star Trek Fandom
available here and from Birdcage Bottom Books
“A very moving, funny and unusual comic. My vote for best
convergence of pop culture with auto-bio drama in quite a while.”
—Henry Chamberlain, Comics Grinder
The ten-part series tells a coming-of-age story not only of the teenagers involved but fandom as well. Once upon a time, cons were not vast corporate-sponsored machines but amateur, ragtag gatherings instigated by fans, for fans. Some might say these events were the purest expressions of love by everyone involved, even if they were commercially unsustainable.
This is a memoir first, history lesson second. Joe has dug deep into his emotions to tell a story that is nostalgic, humorous and touching. While some of the names may have been changed, the costumes, celebrities, misadventures and unbridled passion are all 100% authentic.
“...If this SOUNDS like the kind of thing you'd enjoy,
then you’ll probably enjoy it A LOT. ”
—Ryan C., Four Color Apocalypse
Each issue stands alone, but together they tell a story of a human adventure that was just beginning. Read an excerpt from the series here. 220 b/w pages, plus color covers.
more praise from fans
“ Joe provides a fascinating window on early fandom, conventions, and “cosplay” before that was a word. This is a great read.” —Ed S.
“Wonderfully human, expressive, honest, and beautifully immersive.
Pick up the entire set if you can—you won't regret it!” —Jason F.
Want more info on vintage Star Trek and comic book conventions? Check out my deluxe photo album: 90 pages of photos, ephemera, and commentary that actually formed the basis of the graphic memoir. Only available here.
